10/28/2024
For years, I’ve prepared you for a new day, sharing that a fresh blueprint and wineskin for the church is emerging. We’ve continually encouraged partnering with wisdom to embrace this new direction.
We've long championed the message of systemic exodus. Yet, over the past few years, we found ourselves building a slightly improved version of the world we left behind. That is something I can no longer do.
When I first moved to this city, Abba said, “You have not been sent here to plant a church, but to get sons planted.” But, like most, I didn’t know what else to do except get a building and start weekly services—because that’s familiar and what people are comfortable with.
In humility, I admit the past 14 months have made it clear we built something familiar to man, rather than staying true to the vision God initially gave us. We did everything possible to ensure that this transition decision was from Abba. Since the fire, we’ve been diligently preparing leaders and preparing you to function as a body regardless of having a building. We even worked with two real estate agents to find a home base, yet every door closed.
When those doors started closing, I reflected on two specific encounters during this transition. Seven days before the fire, the Lord prompted me, “Mark, I want to talk to you about media and business.” I hesitated, focused on church, but Abba’s prompting persisted. I finally said, “If this is You, then shut everything down and give us the new blueprint.” Seven days later, the fire occurred.
The second encounter happened after giving our insurance money to my Spiritual Father’s ministry. I knew what the Lord had shown me, but asked if there was a practical reason for sowing that significant seed. Without hesitation, I heard the whisper of the Holy Spirit say, “So you would not rebuild what you did prior to the fire.”
With these encounters in mind, and taking wise counsel from my Apostle, kingdom brothers, and close spiritual sons, every door closing leaves only one path forward—to fully exit the systems we’ve grown accustomed to and embrace a new season.
“Church” as we’ve known it has ended, and a new chapter is ready to unfold. Transition is never easy. But as Spirit-led people, we must recognize when it’s time to move forward instead of lingering too long in what God is clearly shifting.
We don’t fully know what lies ahead, but I refuse to return to what’s comfortable or settle into weekly services just because they’re familiar.
Destani and I will remain in this city and region. We have never made a significant move without knowing the Lord’s word, and we have no new direction. So, we’ll continue to live here, build our business, dream of land for pastors, creatives, and entrepreneurs, and in daily life guide others in the Kingdom way.
We’ve consulted our Apostle, board, and other wise counsel, and we all feel deep peace that this is the right course for us and this ministry. My prayer is that each of you who have walked with us will show grace and understand the difficulty of leading people into something new. I encourage you to keep focusing on union with Jesus, partner with wisdom, and build families, businesses, and a transformed community.
While some may have questions or concerns, we will always be transparent. There is no sin issue or drama. Destani and I are actually healthier than ever. Our only frustration has been uncertainty concerning the church.
This decision isn’t from hurt or pain but rather from peace and reflection, knowing we’ve done all we can. The old wineskin has reached its end, and my frustration was merely in trying to sustain something that Abba clearly wanted us to lay down.
To everyone who has supported, prayed, and served alongside us over these five years—thank you. We honor you for your love, service, and leadership. These years have profoundly impacted us, and we’re incredibly thankful for the relationships we’ve built along the way.
We’ve gained richer theology, a deeper life, freedom from systemic religion, and union with Jesus. For those blessings alone, we are deeply grateful.
Yet, there’s an invitation that remains open. We’re here for those called to live the Kingdom lifestyle and dream of a new wineskin—around campfires, couches, and tables.
We’re more excited and expectant for the future than ever.
For those who feel God is leading them elsewhere, we bless you and fully understand. This path isn’t for everyone. But to those called, like Abraham, to leave the familiar and create a new culture—we’re here for you!
We trust our Good Father and Shepherd will lead you well. We must be faithful to pursue the more excellent way, even when it requires embracing the unknown.
Until then, thank you for loving, praying, and supporting us here in Covington. We look forward with anticipation to covenant land, pastoral retreats, launching an entrepreneurial revolution in the Kingdom, and experiencing abundant life with those who want to walk closely with us in the Kingdom way.
We don’t need a building to do that.
May God bless you all. Great days lie ahead.
